Hello Ify,
Yes, I agree with you, the need for more confidence in the work that is done. I think this need also depends on the industry one is working in, some industries place more emphasis on communication than others.
Also, I think there is much that needs to be done on the reputation of Nigerias, not just in Canada but all over the world. Its really sad sometimes but you wonder what perpetuates the cycle. Mainly the individual characters of each and every member of Nigeria, including issues of greed. Not just do Nigerians hurt people from other countries but we also hurt ourself very bad. For instance, some people have argued for tripple jeopardy for being a black woman, including being a woman, being black and also being an immigrant. For Nigerians, especially those with clean slate, I think its much more than a tripple jeopardy, including the experience of being a Nigerian and also having to proclaim your innocence, compounded by experience of protecting oneself from being scammed by people inside ones community.
This issues and experiences often over shaddows the great brilliance and talent of Nigerians. The question then remains, how do we bring ourself from this crisis. Everyone I believe has a role to play. Nigerians are the most brilliant individuals I know but this will be much visible, if we can create some level of visibility to the numerous Nigerians making great contributions world wide and if there is ever a way to drastically reduce scams. I think it this will require great leadership, commitment by each and every individual Nigerian and time.
I think my husband's mentors words may also help. Do good for someone, without expecting anything in return and when the person ask you how they can pay it back, tell them to pass it on, the good, either to a Nigerian or non Nigerian.